Exeter Chiefs announce signing of prop Tchumbadze

Exeter Chiefs have confirmed the signing of Georgia prop Bachuki Tchumbadze.

The 23-year-old, who made his international debut against the Netherlands in February, joins the Premiership side from Georgian club Black Lion.

Tchumbadze made 14 appearances for Black Lion in the European Challenge Cup and Rugby Europe Super Cup.

He will become the second Georgian to play for Exeter after loosehead prop Nika Abladze, who featured in the 2023-24 season.

Tchumbadze told the club website, external: "I really enjoy English rugby, and I'm truly honoured to have the opportunity to be a key part of the Exeter Chiefs.

"I'm well aware of the crucial role that forwards play in the team's system, and I'm really looking forward to making my debut in the Premiership."

Exeter director of rugby Rob Baxter added: "He's one of those guys who shows an awful lot of promise for a young man. He's dynamic in the loose, very effective in the tight. I think he'll really thrive working with [assistant forwards coach] Ross [McMillan].

"We're going to be focusing on our set piece this pre-season, especially around the scrum, so that will give him a lot of opportunities in live sessions.

"We've just got to give him the platform to work really hard and hopefully he can achieve something really special here."

The length of Tchumbadze's deal was not disclosed.